CO129-519-2 Estimates for 1930 19-9-1929 - 19-9-1929 — Page 3

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that it could be maintained in a state of

efficiency for any length of time. He

confessed that he entertained small hope of

future conditions affording better promise of

success (52786/28).

The present Estimate amounts to a

little over $25,000 as against an annual

estimate of approximately £10,000 on the previous occasion (20666/26).

The revised proposal is opposed

unanimously by the Unofficial Members on the

grounds (1) that it might detrimentally affect the Volunteer Defence Corps, (2) that

Naval Defence should be left to the Navy and (3)

that the proposal was "alien to the spirit of

international concord and fraternity" (Hansard

p, 186 and 191); (Mr.Ellis has pointed out that

(3) is hypocritical) The Governor defended the

proposal: the proposed force would be on so

small a scale as not to interfere with the

Defence Corps, which appeals to a different type

of recruit: it would be of considerable value

in the event of war and financially the proposal was a modest one (the Admiralty were providing

the mine-sweeping equipment and a gun free of charge). (Pages 232-234 of Hansard for 23rd

September). For further information see

paragraph 8 of (3).

The proposal has received the blessing

of the O.D.C. (paragraphs 47,48 and 53 of 0.D.C.

547 M in 52810/28

698R, in same file).

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and paragraph 5 of o.D.C.

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